Greek Odyssey

Greek Classical Tour & Island Sailing Adventure

‘THE GRECIAN ODYSSEY’

10th to 25th May 2013

"Opa!" All

Inclusive

15 Day Tour & Sailing

IOANNINA

SPARTA

MANI

DELPHI

MONI

ASTROS

MAINLAND CLASSICAL TOUR SARONIC GULF ISLANDS SAILING

destinations

Day 1 Arrival transfer from Airport to hotel Arrive in Athens and be transferred to hotel for

overnight

Divani Palace Acropolis Hotel

Athens

BB + Highlight: Welcome Dinner

Day 2 Athens to Delphi Drive from Athens (Sightseeing ) to Delphi-Arachova Amalia Hotel

Arachova / Delphi

HB + Lunch in Local Taverna

Day 3 Delphi to Meteora Visit Ancient Delphi & museum drive to Kalambaka Divani Hotel

Kalambaka / Meteora


Day 4 Meteora to Ioannina Visit the Monasteries of Meteora and drive to Ioannina Du Lac Hotel

Ioannina


Day 5 Ioannina to Olympia Walk around the lake and the medieval town of

Ioannina before driving south to Nafpaktos.

Amalia Hotel

Olympia

HB + Lunch in a Local Taverna

Day 6 Olympia to Mani Visit the ancient Olympics stadium and museum. Drive

southeast to the rocky Mani area (Areopoli)

Porto Vitilo Hotel

Mani

HB + Lunch at a traditional Greek farm (demonstration

of olive oil production + wine making)*

Day 7 Mani to Sparta Drive to Mystras, the old Byzantine town and a World

Heritage site UNESCO before getting to Sparta

Menelaion Hotel

Sparta

BB + Lunch at a local Fish Taverna & Dinner in Local

Taverna

Day 8 Sparta to Athens Marina / Moni /

Poros

Embarkation in Kalamaki Athens 12pm - to Moni island

for lunch/20 miles – Sailing to Poros island for

overnight /10 miles

Yacht Hotel Breakfast + Lunch on board + Dinner in Local

taverna

Day 9 Poros / Dhokos / Spetses Depart from Poros to Dhokos island for lunch and swim

stop – 13 miles –Sailing to Spetses for overnight –

7 miles

Yacht Breakfast and Lunch on board + Dinner in Local taverna

Day 10 Spetses / Leonidion / Astros Depart from Spetses to Leonidion for lunch – 17 miles –

Sailing to Astros for overnight – 18 miles


Day 11 Astros / Nafplion Depart from Astros to Nafplion for lunch and over night

– 10 miles


Day 12 Nafplion / Kounoupi / Ermioni Depart from Nafplion to Kounoupi bay for lunch and

swim – 27 miles – Sailing to Ermioni for overnight –

12 miles


Day 13 Ermioni / Hydra Depart from Ermioni to Hydra for lunch and overnight –

12 miles


Day 14 Hydra / Perdika (Aegina) Depart from Hydra to Perdika for overnight – 16 miles Yacht Breakfast and Lunch on board + Dinner in Local taverna

Day 15 Perdika (Aegina) / Athens Depart from Perdika to Athens – 22 miles to Athens -

Disembarkation

Divani Palace Acropolis Hotel

Athens

BB + Lunch at a local Taverna in Athens +

Highlight: Farewell Dinner

Day 16 Dept transfer from hotel to Airport

DAY DESTINATION ITINERARY ACCOMMODATION MEALS

itinerary

classical tour

ATHENS Among European cities, Athens is the oldest one and the one with the longest history. Named

for its patron goddess Athena, the historic city of Athens is famed for its wealth of classical

temples and museums full of ancient art and artifacts. With a near perfect climate prevailing

throughout the year, Athens is a city that attacks the senses and stirs the spirit of its visitors.

The dawn of the 21st century found the ancient city with a vast new infrastructure system; a

sparkling and continuously expanding new Metro, which displays the artifacts found during its

construction and a sorely needed beltway around the city that has eased the city's infamous

traffic. The ancient sites have been linked together by a unique city boardwalk around classical

Athens with antiquities on one side and modern-day sidewalk cafes, galleries, and rotating out-

door art. The capital's coastline has also been revived with a dizzying selection of cafes, restau-

rants, promenades, pristine beaches and open-air nightclubs by the sea - all a mere tram ride

from downtown.

ARACHOVA Arachova is a mountain village situated at the foot of Parnassos Mountain at an altitude of

950m. Beautiful stone houses, narrow streets and fountains are the first things a visitor sees.

The history of Arachova, dates back to antiquity, mentioned in Homer as Anemoreia. Later, a

brilliant victory of the Greeks against the Ottoman Turks is still celebrated by the locals in the

famous and Panigirakis at St George’s church. In the 20th century and during WWII a battle be-

tween Greek partizans and the Germans took place, establishing the Greek Resistance as an

important player against the Nazis, resulting to severe retaliations by destroying the village’s

clock tower. Today, and despite the growth due to winter tourism, the village maintains the

traditional looks and the picturesque housing.

classical tour

METEORA Meaning ‘suspended in air’ the name Meteora soon came to encompass the entire rock com-

munity of 24 monasteries, the biggest and most important group of monasteries in Greece af-

ter those in Mount Athos Originally accessible only by bridle tracks, ladders and windlasses, the

monasteries have now been brought within the reach of visitors by the construction of modern

roads and flights of steps and by signposting; but it should not be forgotten that these are

places of peace and prayer and meditation, and visitors should conduct themselves accord-

ingly. Monks descended in the nets or on retractable wooden ladders up to 40m long to the

fertile valleys below to grow grapes, corn and potatoes. Each community developed its own

resources and by the end of the 14th century, the Grand Meteoron emerged as the dominant

community. Together with the monasteries of Athos, they make an important contribution to

our knowledge of the post-Byzantine painting of the 16th century. The rock monasteries have

been characterized by UNESCO as a unique phenomenon of cultural heritage.

DELPHI With evocative ruins surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery, Delphi is surely the most

beautiful ancient site in Greece. For the ancient Greeks, Delphi was quite literally the center

of the world: Zeus released two eagles from opposite ends of the earth and they met in the

sky above Delphi. Impaling one another with their beaks, they fell to the ground on the very

center of the world. The site was marked by the sacred Omphalos, or "navel stone." Later,

Apollo killed the serpent Python (son of Mother Earth), guardian of Delphi's sacred Castalian

Spring. The sun god then established an oracle at the spring, promising to provide counsel to

all who needed it. Located at the navel of the world and personally blessed by Apollo, Delphi

was the holiest site in the world for the ancient Greeks. The ruins of Ancient Delphi range in

date from Mycenean times to the early Christian era and are one of the must-sees in Greece.

classical tour

NAFPAKTOS Nafpaktos spreads out from a handsome circular-walled harbour, dotted with plane trees,

trendy cafés, a good swimming beach (Psani) and a well preserved fortress and Venetian cas-

tle, the latter protected by a series of terraced stone walls built by a succession of conquer-

ors (Doric, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian and Turk). Nafpaktos was known as Lepanto in me-

dieval times, and it was here on 7 October 1571 that the naval battle of Lepanto took place

between the Ottoman Empire and the combined navies of the Vatican, Spain and Venice. The

overwhelming victory over the Turks temporarily ended their naval domination of the Medi-

terranean. Look for a small bronze statue of battle hero Miguel de Cervantes, below the har-

bour wall.

IOANNINA A quiet medieval town, Ioannina changed in 1204, when Greeks fleeing Constantinople, af-

ter its capture by the Crusaders, arrived and made it the capital of the Despotate of Epirus,

developing into a crossroad of the trade routes in Europe. The first despot, Michael I,

started building the walls that over the next centuries would be enlarged and strengthened

by various conquerors -- Greeks, Italians, Serbs, and Turks -- to become the magnificent

walled old town and the lively contemporary city that appeals to many of us today. One of

the most notable attractions of Ioannina is the islet on Lake Pamvotis, referred to as

"Nisaki" by everyone, including its inhabitants. Travelers can visit the monastery of Agios

Panteleimon which has been converted into a museum containing information and paint-

ings, as well as re-creations of Ali Pasha's lounging and living quarters. Other important sites

are, the Byzantine Museum, once the palace of Ali Pasha and the old bazaar able to see ves-

tiges of the past in the workshops of the traditional artisans of copper, tin and silver prod-

ucts.

classical tour

MANI Mani, the southernmost and middle peninsula of the Peloponnese or Morea, straddling the districts

of Lakonia and Messenia in southern Greece, is a treasure trove of Byzantine and post Byzantine

churches, Frankish castles and stunning scenery. The isolated aspect of this beautiful area, com-

bined with the independent nature of its inhabitants meant that some traditions developed sepa-

rately from the rest of the Peloponnese and Greece so that a distinct society made its mark on the

landscape. To this day the architecture of the area is famed for the tower houses and fortified family

dwellings from the period of the Ottoman occupation of Greece. Severe, tall stone towers of Mani

as symbols of guard and freedom stay against the limestone landscape of Mani. They guard the fam-

ily’s honor, traditions, hospitality as well as the customs of Mani. Today about 800 towers are scat-

tered all over Mani, they are found everywhere in villages, mountains, on seashores. These monu-

ments of folk architecture reflect the social and historical conditions of the Maniot life.

OLYMPIA The site of Olympia, in a valley in the Peloponnese, has been inhabited since prehistoric times. In

the 10th century B.C., Olympia became a centre for the worship of Zeus. The Altis – the sanctuary

to the gods – has one of the highest concentrations of masterpieces from the ancient Greek world.

In addition to temples, there are the remains of all the sports structures erected for the Olympic

Games, which were held in Olympia every four years beginning in 776 B.C. Olympia is directly and

tangibly associated with an event of universal significance. The Olympiad - the four-year period be-

tween two successive celebrations falling every fifth year - became a chronological measurement

and system of dating used in the Greek world. The significance of the Olympic Games demonstrates

the lofty ideals of Hellenic humanism: peaceful and loyal competition between free and equal men,

who are prepared to surpass their physical strength in a supreme effort, with their only ambition

being the symbolic reward of an olive wreath.

classical tour

SPARTA Located in a fertile, mountain-walled valley, Sparta had been described as a natural fortress. A

rich history of raising heroes and the unique Spartan way of life, was one of the reasons that

modern Sparta was re-founded by King Otto at the same place where ancient Sparta was

found. The modern town of Sparti was designed with the intention of creating one of the most

beautiful cities in Greece through the use of tree-lined boulevards and parklands, above An-

cient Sparta found on the north tip of the town. For centuries Sparta was overshadowed by

Mystras, a very important medieval Greek settlement nearby, found by the Byzantine Emper-

ors, recognized as a World Heritage site protected by UNESCO. A site worth of visiting is the

Museum of Olive tree & Olive Oil production, a one of a kind museum paying attributes to the

product that sustained financially the region through the ages.

sailing

MONI ISLAND Moni lies at south from Aegina island and only 2.5 miles away from Perdika. A good anchorage protected by

south east-north- north east winds provides the comfort for boats to stay here. A beautiful forest stretches

out beyond the beach with its turquoise waters, clambering up the slope of a steep mountain and covering

almost the whole of the northern area of Moni. The colours of the sea at Moni are magic and the water is

crystal clear. There are no inhabitants but instead different species of animals are found, such as the Cham-

ois Cretan goat-antelope, deer and peacocks.

POROS ISLAND Poros located further south in the Saronic gulf, is separated from the Peloponnese mainland by a 200 me-

ter wide channel of water. Among its natural beauties, there are many interesting, picturesque and quiet

spots to enjoy. It’s very attractive capital, called Poros Town, where two-storey houses with coloured win-

dows, doors and walls are standing next to fine neoclassical buildings, surrounded by narrow stone-paved

streets and alleys. Along the pier, there are many little tavernas, cafeterias, restaurants, tourist shops and

many bars.

DHOKOS ISLAND Dhokos is a small island of the Saronic Gulf, between Hydra, Spetses 13 miles south west from Poros. The

landscape of the island is rocky and mountainous, while the highest peak is 308m. About 50 permanent

inhabitants live today in Dhokos and they occupy mostly with agriculture and fishing. Organized tourism is

not developed here, but the island is known among nature lovers, hikers and free campers. Beaches in

Dhokos are small and clean, while the remote landscape is idea for camping. In 1975 the founding of some

ancient pottery by a diver, led to the discovery of the most ancient shipwreck of the world, a merchant ship

that was sunk in 2500 BC full of ceramics.

sailing

SPETSES ISLAND Spetses is a hilly and well-wooded island off the south-west coast of the Argolida. The island's capital, is

built on the gentle slopes above the wide bay containing its harbour. The present town, with a number

of handsome mansions and three interesting churches in Kastelli, the upper town, dates from the 19th

c. The island is small and gives a relaxing atmosphere to visitors. The architecture is traditional and the

streets are narrow and paved. Many buildings are Venetian and depict a wealthy past.

LEONIDION Located in the eastern Pelopponese, Leonidio, emerges from a spectacular landscape, bound by two abrupt

mountainsides enclosing the town from the north and south. Plaka is the picturesque port of Leonidio, situated

4 km from the town. It functions mainly with the help of tourism, but a small fishing fleet is also to be found; a

well-regarded beach lies 4 km across the shore.

Today, Leonidio is a lively and colourful town, especially in summer months, as a result of newly developing

tourism. Agriculture, nevertheless, remains a main source of income for its residents, and the benefits of the ex-

ploitation of the plain are irreplaceable.

ASTROS Astros is a port city near the Argolic Gulf in the northeast Peloponnese in eastern Arcadia. The name and the set-

tlement both date back to ancient times, when it was known as Astron. This lovely Greek village is built on subtle

hills around a sandy bay. A medieval castle on top of the hill provides a panoramic view over the gulf. The place

is alive with fishermen and tourists in a positive manner. Approximately 4 km from the village is Moni Loukous, a

large monastery, which is well worth a visit.

sailing

NAFPLION A seaport town in the north-east Peloponnese that has been built up the hillsides near the north end

of the Argolic Gulf. Nafplion is far and away the most charming town in the Peloponnese, with

stepped streets overhung with balconies dripping with bougainvillea, handsome neoclassical build-

ings, enticing shops, restaurants, cafes, and two fine museums. It has played an important role

throughout history, with numerous conquerors, and especially after the War of Independence, when

it became the first capital of Independent Greece. Elements of Venetian, Neo-Classical and Islamic

architecture can be found in the churches, mosques, museums and buildings located in the area of

the Old town. The Venetian architecture is also visible in the two famous fortresses of Nafplion, Pala-

midi and Bourtzi.

KOUNOUPI ISLET This tiny islet opposite of Spetses and just 10 miles from Ermioni, is considered as a must stop for all yachters

sailing the area. The turquoise crystal clear waters of this islet are ideal for swimming.

ERMIONI Little is written about Ermioni in the guide books, yet it is a beautiful coastal town, situated in the Argolida re-

gion of the Peloponnese. Its name comes from the Greek Mythology, as Hermione was the only daughter of

Helen and Menelaus, King of Sparta. Ermioni town is split into three sections. The Limania port side is located on

the northern side of the peninsula, with the lively Mandrakia on the southern side of the peninsula. At the far

end of the town, at the eastern point, is the pine-clad wooded area called the Bisti. Ermioni still remains au-

thentically Greek, charming, hospitable and friendly.

sailing

AEGINA (PERDIKA) Perdika is a beautiful small fishing village, with traditional scenery,9 km south of the town of Aegina. It was

built on top of a hill, with fantastic views of the blue waters of the sea, and the small island Moni. Perdika is

an old traditional settlement, build around the port. In the old times its townsfolk were occupied exclusively

with fishing. Main characteristic of the settlement of Perdika is the small houses with their yards to connect

with each other. The marina in Perdika offers excellent facilities and can host the boats and yachts of the visi-

tors to Perdika. Perdika is extremely picturesque and has maintained its traditional look and characteristics.

The fishing port makes a truly relaxing setting for holidays in this part of Aegina, and offers moments of

peace and beauty. Many of the visitors to Perdika love this village with great passion and become regulars.

HYDRA Hydra is one of the Saronic Islands located in the Aegean Sea between the Saronic Gulf and the

Argolic Gulf. It is separated from the Peloponnese by narrow strip of water. Consisting of a cres-

cent shaped harbor, around which is centered a strand of restaurants, shops, markets, and galler-

ies that cater to tourists and locals. Steep stone streets lead up and outwards from the harbor

area. From the 17th Century on, Hydra began to take on a greater importance due to its trading

strength and its ship building capabilities.

Yacht: Jeanneau 53

cost & inclusions

Your FULLY INCLUSIVE Tour

Meals & Drinks * All breakfasts, Lunches and dinners daily

* All drinks are included in all restaurants, tavernas and on board including local Beer, Wine, Soft drink & Juice

Culinary Highlights include;

* Welcome dinner & Farewell dinner

* Lunches in local tavernas during Classical Tour

(Includes 1 x special Lunch at a traditional Greek Farm with olive oil & wine making demonstration, and 1 x Fish Taverna lunch)

* Dinners in local tavernas during Yacht adventure

Classical Tour – inclusions

* Private Arrival & Departure Transfers

* Licensed professional English speaking tour guide

* Superior Class Hotels throughout as stipulated (or similar)

* Luxury air conditioned minibus

* Buffet Breakfasts & Dinners in Hotels, Lunches in local tavernas

* All drinks are included in all restaurants and tavernas including Local Beer, Wine & Soft drinks

* Archeological Site Entrance Fees Included are: Acropolis + Acropolis Museum, Delphi Archaeological site + Museum, 2 Meteora monasteries, Visit in Dodoni

Ancient Theater + Archeological and Byzantine museum in Ioannina, Olympia Archaeological site + Museum, Mystras town (World Heritage site) + Olive museum

Sailing Adventure – inclusions

* Group transfers from Yacht / Marina to Hotel

* Licensed professional Skippers, PLUS Hostess & Local Escort

* Yacht: Jeanneau 53 built 2010 (or similar) + Mooring fees, Fuel & Local Taxes

YOUR TOUR DOES NOT INCLUDE

*** Air Fares and Travel Insurance (Note: Mediterranean Holidays & Tours, and Sailing Adventures consider Travel Insurance Essential)***

2013 GRECIAN ODYSSEY TOUR & SAIL

$8,250 Twin Share

$1,950 Single supplement Deposit on Booking $1500 (Payable immediately upon booking)

Balance Due by 30th March 2013

Greek Odyssey

Documents

Transcript of Greek Odyssey